Armed sexual battery, burglary suspect sought by Fort Lauderdale Police
FORT LAUDERDALE — The Fort Lauderdale Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying a suspect involved in a Friday night sexual battery and burglary case.
According to FLPD, the incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. in the area of 5970 NE 18th Ave., where preliminary investigation revealed that the victim was inside of her bedroom in her apartment when the assailant entered through the front door, went into her room and jumped on top of her.
The suspect, who was armed, threatened to kill her before sexually battering her and fleeing the apartment northbound down the hallway.
"My mom was outside smoking and then she heard screaming the girl came outside screaming and what ever. There was a couple guys there. They saw what happened and called the cops," said Jonathan Jimenez. He said his mom was by the pool, along with a few others when the victim began screaming. Neighbors believe the suspect may have run past them into a grassy area behind the building.
"I never expect anything like this here because we never had that type of problem," said neighbor Patrick Griffin.
According to FLPD, the suspect is described to be a man in his 30s, who is about 6' or taller, and has a muscular build.
Detectives are asking for anyone who has seen a man fitting the description to contact FLPD immediately, and asking nearby residents and businesses to check their surveillance cameras to see if they captured the suspect on video.
If video is available, FLPD is asking you to contact Det. Sgt. Hector Martinez at (954) 828-5510 or email Det. Christopher Chylack at cchylack@fortlauderdale.gov. Information can also be provided anonymously by contacting Broward County Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS (8477).